This study aims to propose a design plan for a mid-rise mass timber shared housing as an alternative to address the deteriorating housing quality and social isolation caused by the rapid increase of single-person youth households in urban areas. In pa...
This study aims to propose a design plan for a mid-rise mass timber shared housing as an alternative to address the deteriorating housing quality and social isolation caused by the rapid increase of single-person youth households in urban areas. In particular, this research seeks to derive spatial characteristics and planning directions for shared spaces that can overcome the spatial rigidity and enforced interaction found in existing shared housing, thereby inducing natural and selective community activation among residents.
The research methodology first established the residential characteristics of youth households and the concept of shared housing through a literature review, classifying shared spaces into three functional types basic life support, transitional, and community-
oriented. Furthermore, the structural characteristics and flexibility of mid-rise timber construction were analyzed to examine the feasibility of its application to shared housing. Based on these findings, a site analysis and program configuration for the Bokjeong-dong area were conducted to derive a specific design proposal.
The key findings and design strategies of this study are as follows First, the hierarchy of shared space was structured into three levels—Micro, Cluster, and Public—to support selective relationship building that minimizes the psychological burden on residents. Second, a vertical hierarchy was established, differentiating into urban-linked types on the lower floors, cluster types on the mid-floors, and private-shared types on the upper floors. These spaces are integrated with vertical cores and three-dimensional voids to facilitate unintentional encounters in daily life. Third, the study proposed time-sharing strategies and flexible spaces that maximize space utilization by leveraging the inherent flexibility and materiality of timber structures.
This study is significant in that it presents a new architectural model for urban shared housing by integrating eco-friendly and adaptable timber construction technology. However, due to limitations in engineering evaluations such as legal standards for actual construction, structural stability, and fire resistance, empirical follow-up studies that integrate timber construction technology with residential management programs are required.